Continued refurbished organization.

Can I tell you something? These metal file drawers are a dime a dozen at your local Goodwill. They have kind of gone the way of the rotary phone in terms of office decor. The good news? YOU can make something out of it that you wouldn't be afraid to display in your office or craft room!  Gunsgermssteel doesn't provide instructions for this filing cabinet revamp, but a project like this is not hard. Here's how I would do it.

Umbrella jewelry anyone?

I really love it when dudes craft. I was pleasantly surprised to find out that the gentlecrafter who procured these projects is named Michael! And he has an Etsy store!

I'm not quite sure how Mr. Michael created this collection, but I can say tell you what I would do. You can easily pick up wood shapes in various sizes at any craft store - a 1" circle is a great place to start! You'll first want to drill the hole. You can use a small household drill, as you won't have to push very hard, and then be careful! Now you are ready to craft. Choose a paint color (FolkArt Acrylic paint is highly recommended) that you will use as your background and a coordinating piece of paper. Basecoat the wood piece several times - I recommend three coats of paint.

While the painted wood is drying, cut out your paper shape. You can use a punch, available in the scrapbooking section of a craft store, or you can draw your own shape and cut out with a craft knife. Be sure to use a mat below (yes, I've made the mistake of not and it isn't good!). You are now ready to Mod Podge!

Apply the Mod Podge to the paper piece and affix to your wood shape. Allow to dry for about 15 minutes. You are now ready to coat the entire shape at least three times with Mod Podge!  I highly recommend using the Hard Coat formula on jewelry, but Gloss will also work.  When you are done applying coats, allow to dry overnight.  All you need to finish is a chain and a jump ring, which you can ALSO get at any craft store.  If you want something a little more posh or real sterling silver, head to your local bead store or browse the internet.

You know what I am thinking?  What a great holiday gift idea. . .

Magazine holders spice up a shelf!

Moxie-girl gets bonus points with me. First of all, she's trying to organize. As most of us crafty types have experienced, organization can be difficult. Our brains just don't work that way!

Secondly, she's organized within a budget! If you are going to get your life together, IKEA is the place to go.

And third - she used Mod Podge. Please visit the photo site above to read her description of what she did. If someone who calls themselves "not too crafty" (I have to disagree!) can do this, think about what you can make?!

Gentle readers.

I've been out of commission for awhile - winter, the holidays and a sickness - but I'm back! Look for exciting new projects for 2009. More tips, and more fun!

Happy Decoupaging!

Amy